Türkiye implements new measures against illegal migration

Türkiye is entering a new phase in combating illegal migration. Aid will be cut off for those not found at their registered addresses, and those who do not return despite warnings will be deported.

Measures will also prevent refugees from mobilizing.

As voluntary repatriation of Syrians in Türkiye is expected to be elevated to leader levels between the two countries in the coming days, new initiatives will also be discussed regarding the fight against illegal migration.

During a presentation to the Justice and Development Party (AK Party)’s Strategy Council, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya outlined upcoming steps in combating illegal migration.

According to information obtained, Yerlikaya announced: “New plans are forthcoming, driven by demands from the business community to employ registered refugees in Türkiye. Initiatives will be launched to address this.”

“In addition, we are implementing new measures to combat illegal migration. We have begun a practice of visiting the addresses provided by registered refugees in Türkiye. If they are not found there, they are urged to return; their aid will be discontinued. If they still do not return, deportation will ensue.”

Yerlikaya also highlighted the success of the ‘Mobile Migration Point’ initiative launched in Istanbul in 2023, indicating plans to expand these points in provinces with high refugee populations.

“Türkiye currently hosts approximately 3.1 million Syrian nationals under temporary protection, with about 1.1 million holding residence permits.

Additionally, there are 235,000 foreigners under international protection, totaling nearly 4.5 million registered foreigners in terms of regular migration,” he underscored.

The minister further emphasized ongoing operations targeting organizers of migrant smuggling, noting the rigorous efforts resulting in the detention of 12,500 smugglers, with 4,500 arrests made.